Political Changes Under Mao

What political changes did Mao make?

While China appeared to be democratic, Mao carefully crafted a system of government which allowed for complete control over the Communist Party and the people.

How did the structure of government change following Mao's political changes?

There were 7 key elements to his new structured system of government:

• ❖ Head of CCP/State: This position was established for Mao and dominated all other elements of the new system of government.
• ❖ Politburo: This had a committee of 5 members who were carefully selected by Mao Zedong and were often his allies within the CCP. The Politburo governed China under Mao's authority.
• ❖ Central Committee of the Party: This comprised 44 members of the CCP and was usually populated with the party's top leaders.
• ❖ State Council of the National Government: This was led by a Premier and carried out administrative and legislative functions for review by the Politburo and Mao.
• ❖ The People's Liberation Army: The armed forces for the country and the CCP.
• ❖ National government: This comprised 24 ministries which controlled and standardised aspects of society for the whole country, e.g. banks and education.
• ❖ Provincial government: There were 6 regional governments which addressed the needs of the provinces within their areas. Local economic development might be discussed or an external leader inserted to ensure compliance.